Olanzapine-Induced Acute Rhabdomyolysis

Introduction

Olanzapine, a thienobenzodiazepine derivate, is a second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic agent with serotonin-dopamine-receptor-antagonism [2]. It has been shown in numerous clinical trials as equally effective in treating positive symptoms of schizophrenia, and more effective for negative and depressive symptoms than conventional antipsychotics. Most common adverse effects, which are relevant for patient-reported noncompliance in general [7], are weight gain and somnolence. In recent years uncommon side effects of olanzapine are reported more frequently [4]. Neuroleptic malignant syndrom (NMS) [5] [6] [15] or marked reversible elevation of serum creatine kinase (CK) associated with rhabdomyolysis [10] [13] is rare. We report a case of rhabdomyolysis with massive increase in CK activity after initiation of olanzapine monotherapy.

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